Raven entered the room and closed the door behind her, unaware of her roommate's presence. When she turned and looked up, she was surprised to see December, lying on her stomach on the bed, looking ahead of her as though she was…copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡG2THgMWsYA
Well, she was in a daze. That was all Raven could think of.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡXDe2QneG0Q
Biting her lip to stop herself from chuckling, she quietly walked over to her friend and waved a hand in front of her. Not even a blink.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ54otzyFuAz
Raven was amazed at the extent of December being unaware of her surroundings. She knew what brought this on, however, and though it's been a couple of days since December got asked out by their archery captain, their expectations that she would come down to planet earth instead of staying on the moon seemed to be underestimated.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡOhBIZRuVks
Just then, an idea occurred to her.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡwh6LkW9yC9
Walking away from December, she stood in front of her study table and took out her hair pins out of her hair, all the while grinning to herself. Spotting December's phone, she picked it up and cradled it against her ear, saying loudly, "Hi Zach. December? Oh, she's in the bathroom right now but I can take a message for – "copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHeNbOmQiW
The phone suddenly disappeared from her grip as December snatched it away from Raven. December was wide-eyed and flushed as she put the device against her ear before a bewildered look flashed across her face. She stared at phone before looking at Raven with an irritated look.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡp7d1PcSk8d
"Raven."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡMEuSqPPzns
At her friend's irate and crestfallen expression, Raven couldn't contain her laughter. She clutched her stomach, her body wracked in laughter until she let out a few last titters of chuckle.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡINaWAlKWb3
December then took her phone and sat on her bed, almost sullen.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡTBa7C0kvks
"Oh, come on, D. It was a joke." Raven wiped a tear at the corner of her eye. "You should have seen yourself by the way. Has he been texting you?" She sobered a little and asked.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡI77d0x2P7q
December's shoulders were slumped as she answered, "Nope."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡiPesMONxLZ
Raven gave her an apologetic look before smiling. "Hey, don't worry about it. You know how busy he could get with all those tournament and club stuffs. And he's also part of the Student Council. I'm sure he'll get to you soon."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡAFBLMeM6K7
December paused in thought at that, before understanding dawned on her as she sat up straight. "You're right. I mean, I knew he could be busy…I just can't help how I feel." She smiled sheepishly at Raven.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡzseHGefJ4m
"Well, I think I can understand that." Raven chuckled.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡamcoOYcCwY
Just as December laid down on her bed again, hugging her pillow and Raven heading towards the bathroom, a sound rang out in the room.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡC7DdSqrFxb
Knowing the ringtone, December mindlessly reached around her bed for the phone, and when she glanced at it, her eyes became wide before she blinked. Then, with eyes still fixed on the screen, she let out a shriek.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡM6E1Nlg34k
"Raven!"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡpeHBCwAP86
Raven opened the bathroom door and peeked around, looking at December in sudden surprise. "What? What happened?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKdrY6SqMp
December couldn't speak. She was happy yet anxious because of the surprise. Her mouth opened and closed a few times before she just raised her phone mid-air and croaked, "It-it's him."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡCywgzkBPnG
Raven gasped, her eyes wide in excitement. Her roommate didn't need any more affirmation as she got out of the bathroom in only a towel. "Well, answer him, D!"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡaMURnwnYlw
She nodded and fumbled with her phone, before swiping on the screen. "H-hello?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49hiBfotFa
There was a crackle before the caller on the line spoke. "Hey, December."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡSiJozjIb96
His voice sounded pleasant and warmth spread through December's body.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡRjSLbgizeE
"Zach." The smile on her face bloomed and it only grew when Raven grinned at her. Despite her elation, her heart thumped erratically. She wondered why he called. Reminding herself to sound as she hadn't been on the verge of hyperventilating, she said, "So, what's up?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5jOmBpCZSi
She resist the urge to cringe at that. Raven's expression didn't help either.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡaLATa9cTkl
"So, I was wondering if you're free tonight." Zach said. There was a creaking sound which sounded as though he was sitting on a swiveling chair.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡZbFRXR8gqn
December's heart skipped a beat at that. She had been wondering when or how things are going to be – listening to her friends talking about their dates and all was fun, but experiencing this herself when she barely know how to differentiate if someone's interested with her and or was just being nice was another. She believed that Zach must have had some interest in her to ask her out, but even that didn't reassure the doubts that would somehow prodded her mind when her guard was down.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡUvGISh7uh0
Nevertheless, she wasn't going to let it ruin her euphoric feeling and possibility of getting a boyfriend. With a beam and vigorous nod, she said, "Yes, I am." Then, biting her lower lip to stop the smile from getting wider, she continued, "Why do you ask?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡMrLnlWwyPR
Zachary chuckled into the phone. "Well, I wanted to ask you out tonight. How does dinner and a movie sound to you?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡUO3zG1qPhQ
December was beyond giddy now; her nerves were dancing and her heart wouldn't go back to its normal beat. She tried to tell herself that it's just a date and she shouldn't get all hype up about it – but that didn't work at all.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡccmSUea2Js
She shook her head to herself at her silliness. So what now if she can't control her feelings for him? She deserve to have this moment of treasuring what she feel, and not care if she looked ridiculous with it.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vTPTfLpNA
"I think…that sounds really good." She couldn't help the giggle that escaped her lips.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡhHpkh6mIVD
"Great. I'll see you tonight at 7."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡy8PV1K9bMS
"Okay, see you."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡDQoxFhMqHA
Once they hung up, December took a deep breath before exhaling it, meeting Raven's bright gaze – both of them quiet as they processed what just took place.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ZhrkyxGgt
It was only seconds before they both squealed and shrieked, the shrill noise rang loudly in their room. They must have caused other dorm inhabitants to wonder what was up, but December didn't care.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡjPB9LCUVOH
She laughed girlishly as they stood and Raven was hugging her tightly, both jumping for a little while in that position.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡOsxd0cuNDc
"Oh my God, December!" Raven shrieked in happiness.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡnEbF5vdDbu
"I know, I can't believe this!" December replied equally.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7vkJF6mz1a
After a while, December paced the room, with a towel-clad Raven sitting on the bed, excitement for her friend shone in her eyes.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡgPDN2D0xqD
"Wow, D. I'm impressed that you went through that without needing help from me." Raven started, her eyes twinkling in a playful glint.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡJNhVsnqG1C
December rolled her eyes, the beam still in her face as she glanced at her roommate. "Oh, I'm not that hopeless, Raven."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡb98wSNCemE
Then, she cocked her hands on her hips. "But I am pretty hopeless in what comes next. Will you help me choose what to wear?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡpDt2qwGr36
A delightful look passed Raven's features. "Oh, I thought you'd never ask."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4NUmInJ94L
She had always spent her Friday nights sleeping in and entertaining herself with her hobbies or hanging out with her close friends, and at one point December thought the pattern would stay the same. After all, she was way beyond hoping or even thinking that she could find someone in the academy who would have an interest in her let alone date her.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡLfUTMMGp13
But the pattern would change tonight – because she was going out on a date – something that had never happened in her nonexistent dating life.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3qGwt729y6
It thrilled her yet she was terribly anxious – because how does one go about this? And would it go well?copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡfDTaZCxJLB
"Is there a guide on how to go on dates for dummies? Because if there is, then I need it ASAP." December bit her lip in uncertainty, and winced as Raven pulled on her hair as she braid it. Her roommate murmured an apology before tilting her head and then shook it.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwRpqDc72d
Raven had called Brooke over to help her with getting ready. Even though Serena couldn't lend a help due to a family dinner with hers and Weston's family, she did cheered December and wished her luck.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡa6ERC7ZFgy
She really was glad to have them as her friends.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡMwbFHaieT3
December watched as Raven blow-dried her hair and untangle the braid.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡQoAHN0lZ7o
She also knew that Raven was more likely not to answer her question when she's focused on something so she glanced at Brooke who was busy picking out her outfit.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡdiuRa7ZaNg
"Brooke?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡJzNVfu5xJZ
"Hang on. I'm trying to find the…yes!" She let out a triumph 'a-ha!' before showing them the outfit. Glancing towards the outfit from the mirror, both December and Raven's expression turned aghast.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡAzoahcbDcj
"No way." December said with a determined look. At Brooke's pout, she emphasized it. "No."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1pBwhMDgXq
The outfit was something that December was certain she would never wear, more so on a date. It was a black dress that was so short, she knew it had to end a little higher above the knee. If that wasn't enough, the cleavage area was so low, she knew they would spill at how narrow and small the cups were, regardless whether she was a big or a small chested person.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡwG0jBfNHMw
Brooke huffed and muttered to herself, although it was loud enough that they could hear it. 'After all the trouble I went to get this from my boxes…"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡHm65xniI0u
December gasped. "I knew that's not mine! I don't remember ever getting such a...such a scandalous outfit!"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ12TDyapcrn
"Oh, don't be such a prude." Brooke rolled her eyes. "I just thought we're going in for the kill to make him go haga haga over you – "copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡDX3DgFS4nE
"Haga haga?" Raven choked over her laughter, while December just looked at Brooke, looking horrified.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡB41Hay5sg6
"– and I was trying to accentuate your blessed curves." Brooke grinned. "Besides, sugar, sorry to say this but you have nothing that'll match well for a date."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡWi8QVH1lUs
December grumbled. "Thanks for the reminder."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡIxpMaGr3LO
Raven was still busying herself over December's hairdo, said although a little distractedly. "Hm, why can't she – "copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡHmTJ43hawy
Brooke, knowing what Raven was about to say, gave her a look. "Raven, I'm not letting her wear a hoodie and jeans to go on a date with Zach."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡgsQpjL7k61
December frowned at Brooke.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡMPzcBKT3NE
Raven struggle to keep a straight face. "Okay, mum." She rolled her eyes with a grin as she worked on December's hair. She frowned a little when she spotted something. "D, your roots are showing. Do you plan on dyeing it again or letting it grow?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡSv1Le5Pvgl
Meeting Raven's gaze through the mirror, she made an 'oh' sound before saying, "I didn't notice that. I think I'll dye it later." Then, she sighed out loud. "Also, I'm sorry for being a complete dunce about not knowing a single thing about dates and dresses but can we please not choose something that is too revealing? I just don't feel comfortable with it."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3xNTW6F4rL
Raven and Brooke then stared at her for a moment before looking at each other, nodding.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6dAFqcpjfc
"Okay, don't worry about it. We'll figure it out." Raven said with a soft smile.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡX7IYTW4Irl
It wasn't until an hour later that they managed to pair up a pretty outfit as well as applying some makeup for December. Ten minutes of pep talk and three minutes later, December was set to meet up with Zach by the entrance of her dorm, where her two close friends peeked through her windows and beamed down at the scene before them like proud parents.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vSRpPY4Tp
The party had been going on for two hours and Pierre was starting to feel the usual boredom striking him. The upbeat music was playing to the energetic, gyrating and hormonal teenagers and despite the spacious house, Pierre felt trapped and aggravated.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡPZDqF3C5mS
He really shouldn't have come, after all.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡik00iTWnCo
He saw Blake, Caleb and Jethro talking amongst themselves with some girls and other guys from the football and archery team, all wearing grins as they laughed and enjoyed themselves.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡIGTAxipwnj
Standing half-hidden from everyone else at a corner, he held his drink in a red paper cup – a carbonated or alcoholic beverage, he wasn't even sure – and kept an eye for the voluptuous blonde whom he knew was searching for him, if her wandering gaze sweeping across the room was any indication.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡWcjzDYDg3Z
He thought at that moment that he had to be weird not to enjoy the things teenagers did at a party but it didn't bother him much to feel like he had to change that.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8lj8lC2i0E
He tried to enjoy himself or even amuse himself with the theatrics of the drunkards but even that hadn't last long. Pierre just wasn't in the mood and with each passing minutes, he found himself annoyed with everything.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJkAjSTJpg
He knew why, of course but he wanted to ignore it, tried to ignore it, but his thoughts kept going anyway.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2lsmV6kymo
A week ago, when he met December at the garden, he received a call from Katya, asking him to meet her. Unaffected, he told her he had other things to do, and while she hadn't called him after that, it seemed like she was determined to bother him again this week.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡyvKSE6uGov
He hadn't known how to deal with the people from his past; sure, they had been the best of friends before but those were the times before everything crashed and burned around him.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡl5eFFyyyhX
He was different, and he was sure they were too.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡOkjhHeo1MK
So, why did he felt frustrated and agitated by them, even though it was only to have dinner – for old times' sake?copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡqlgadUgIBE
Someone giggled beside him, and thinking that Karen had found him, he looked up in surprise just to find a girl leaning against him with a dopey expression.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡdWKrCp0aXi
"Hey, handsome. Wanna have fun tonight?" She giggled, the slur evident in her voice. She was pissed-faced drunk.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8MCr4jFsls
Pierre tightened his jaw and gently shrugged his arm off her grip. Scanning around and not seeing Karen, he took a step towards where his friends are, only to be stopped by the only person he was trying to avoid.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡcLNtW1ncJY
"Pierre!" Karen purred, her eyes bright at the sight of him but Pierre could tell she's buzzed too. "I've been looking everywhere for you."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡRWVBox0oHY
Damn it.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡGQLjhPDXhZ
Karen giggled and clung to his arm tightly, pulling him towards her equally buzzed friends. "Come on, let's go meet my friends."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡpuLdXHelTY
Glancing around to look for his friends for help, he found them looking at him and grinning, waving their cups at him in salutation.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡkLUfmjMnIu
Pierre felt a buzz in his pocket, and as he fished out and read the text, he froze.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpk6JCVnzd
It's about your mother.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡnZH8cEQrZJ
That was it; four words but it affected him deeply. His expression turned cold, and his gaze hardened the more he scanned the words.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡpjvkzRElem
At the same time, Caleb had noticed his expression and broke off from the group, heading his way.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡQAMbHvNDTm
Karen, who in her inebriated state had realized that Pierre had stopped moving, turned around and pouted. "What's the matter?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡQglxpycfZb
Pierre ignored her, as well as Caleb's amused grin at Karen.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡYpvuJ5lnrA
When his friend was within his reach, he put a hand on Caleb's shoulder and said, "I have to go."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡKhawsR2guV
Bemused and curious, Caleb asked, "What's going on? Do you need a ride?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡClcYSBx4Qx
He shook his head. "It's…just something I've got to do. I'll see you lads later."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡgPWMjGRE3i
Pierre turned and left, his legs directing him to his next destination, as his thoughts focused on the content of the text, that unfortunately succeeded in making him relented to face his past.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡfOApl2hnjM
The night air was cool with a touch of the breezy wind, and December basked in its soothing sensation. December and Zach just had dinner and though she thought it was going to be awkward, thankfully he made her feel comfortable as they conversed and ate. She found out some things about him, such as the fact that he was a vegetarian, which was the opposite from her, and that he had entered a skating competition when he was in junior high. December found that interesting and she stored that knowledge away in her mind.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡjW7vUZ7s4X
They were now heading towards the theatre in town, the flashing lights of the cinema attracting people from afar, as they walked about and passed it. They walked side by side, both occupied by their thoughts, even though their silence were being penetrated by the loud sounds and carefree voices as they neared the populated streets in town. December was all too aware of the proximity of him beside her, even though she tried not to focus on it too much. Who knows what else she might come up with to embarrass herself?copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡZlNW76CZLG
Nevertheless, his mild spicy cologne and heat from his body penetrating her senses wasn't helping her much.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡh0uRqPUIdd
Trying desperately to think of something else, a thought occurred to her and she blurted out, "Why are we going on a date?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡuxaC35CaxG
At his startled and bemused look, she hastily amended, "No, I mean why…me?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8x1Vt9268O
When his gaze met hers again, she quickly looked away, mentally chastising herself.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡMqPhif7dYl
Was it the wrong thing to ask? Did she made him uncomfortable? Why was she being nervous like this? Things had gone well so far and she had to ruin the pleasant night walk, or so she thought.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡrsSB4VGH6d
His warm chuckle brought her out of her reverie and she looked up, surprise and relief to find that she didn't make him uncomfortable.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡneKpaezdkH
They stopped and Zach looked her in the eyes.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ177Qoq6wD4
"I've always thought that you're charming, smart, funny, and you're cute as hell too and well…I told myself it's about time I ask you out. Before we go our separate ways." If that wasn't enough, he added quickly, as if he needed her to hear everything he's got to say. "I could list on more, and that's just the tip of the iceberg." His voice took on a shy tone, and coupled with his dimpled smile and shining look in his eyes, December thought she was a goner.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡR4xKFCFljM
Oh my God…copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡzH1k7byGoS
Okay, calm down my beating heart!copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡnq0vhoVoVz
Hearing 'cute' and 'hell' from him just doesn't feel right, but it sounded like music to my ears. Did he really think I'm charming? And cute? Cue internal squealing.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡsND0xjDdFX
December's face was flushed and she had a shy smile on her face. Her heart was beating louder and she was smiling too much that her cheeks hurt, but she giggled and said, "Oh wow, ah, thanks. I didn't know you're a smooth talker, Zach."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡZeE0zLc7rB
She was trying to steer the topic away from her, lest she couldn't control her flushing cheeks anymore.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0P11lipgGl
Zachary only smiled at her, and as they continued to walk towards the theatre, he glanced before saying, "I mean them, December."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ98taFMOTs
Yeah, I'm definitely a goner.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡLTHqUgc6oE
December made it to her dorm just before the matron could reprimand her, feeling like she was walking on clouds. If the dorm matron did give her an earful, she doubted that would dampen her good mood.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡHptJqO1Q5I
After the movie, he had them driven to get some ice cream gelato at a parlour and they had talked the night through. She enjoyed spending the time with him so much that when she knew they had neared their curfew, it felt like their magical moment together was coming to an end really fast and she didn't know what else she could do to prolong them. The feeling was too disappointing and she almost wanted to just tell him to break some curfew to stay out late.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡbWSjp3ZcRT
But December could never do that. Besides the fact that she knew Zach held punctuality like it was a part of his soul, he just doesn't seem like the sort of person to break them. And she knew what the consequences would be to his record if they were caught – and they most probably would – it would definitely affect his presidency at the Student Council.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡECMl2GCeN0
She sighed.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡTuqmdQbfGh
She hadn't dared to do that at all.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡYSdRcDUcPL
December played back the moment from when he first came to pick her up, the pleasant dinner, the walk to the theatre, and their late night conversations – he looked so different and carefree.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5uoSQrysFl
She would not forget this moment; her first date with the guy she had a crush on; his smile, his dimples, the little laughs he would elicit when he found something amusing, the warm and tingle sensation he made her feel, those little touch and gestures he did when their skin met with contact – and though she'd heard this in the movies all the time, she finally knew it to be true because if this was a dream, then she didn't want to wake up from it at all.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡtzQTV4K7kq
But of course, she had to eventually.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡpiiDavg4H6
Before she could reach her doorknob, the door swung open and she saw Brooke's eager face.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡPMBeErFdUl
"Well? What happened? Details, December!"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡznUphPu1XO
"My God, Brooke! Let her come inside first before you start the Spanish Inquisition on her." Immediately, Brooke was pulled inside by Raven who gave her an apologetic but grinning look. "Hey, D."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡsn7L0hggmX
December's surprise face gave way to mirror the grin on Raven's face. With everything that happened tonight, the feelings on being high on her emotion made it impossible not to. It was infectious.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡncKYqop5Ck
She walked in and saw Raven, Brooke, and Serena all sitting on the beds looking expectant. And of course, beaming.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡqbHkBZa508
They were all quiet, too quiet until she realized they were struggling to keep the questions in, and she said what they have been wanting to know all night, "It was wonderful." She breathe a dreamy sigh.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡUtv1evjvLF
All three of them squealed in excitement, and when December's eyes went wide and she gestured for them to tone it down, they giggled quietly when they remembered the warden patrolling at this time. Brooke and Raven hugged each other and Serena laughed at them before she reached towards December, pulling her closer to them.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡs8Rd7iCwne
"You have no idea how long these two crazies stood by the window, waiting to catch a glimpse of you and Zach." Serena chuckled. "They're waiting for the moment."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡQNpy81xi6y
Raven poked Serena's arm. "Correction. We're waiting for it, because don't you act like you haven't been doing the same ever since you got back."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡq12V2hqmMc
Serena's face broke out into a sheepish grin.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2flTssc4Zz
December was high on their expressions and feelings too, but she found herself a little lost at what Raven said. "Wait, the moment?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡiPnIovJWNQ
All three of her friends looked at her strangely before they said in hushed unison, "The kiss!"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡveRx9UOAhB
Then, they all promptly burst into giggles and suppressed squealing. December immediately blushed and made an 'oh' sound, because of course she had to be person who wouldn't be able to catch on what 'the moment' means.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡMjQ8diApnA
She can't believe she was so dense sometimes – but could anyone blame her? Her senses were fogged as she still weren't over one of the best – if not the best – night of her life.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡYFploOQ8KE
Looking at her giggling friends, she laughed at the state they were in. If anyone could see them right now, they would think they were highly drunk. It certainly weren't the everyday scenes people see of them.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgSRN2MCC3
December jumped on them in a group hug before finding some way to settle in between her friends on her single bed.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡdpm3xzm8YJ
She sighed dreamily. "Guys, it was everything I have dreamt of and more. I just…I don't know where to begin and how to explain what I feel! I've never…felt like this before."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡIXp8jNXaWH
Serena sighed quietly and smiled. "I'm happy for you. Zach seems like a good person."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡOVYGNLJzol
"He is." December nodded and smiled.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡCBLYFjy1sx
Brooke adjusted her position, but finding that she was on the edge, got up and sat on Raven's bed.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡKau9jNXhXU
"Well, I think we really need to know what went on. Everything, D." Brooke gushed.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡZMQXtDIcc6
And she did for the next hour.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡxOIjNnClo4
"Wait, so you're saying you guys didn't exactly get to kiss? Oh, this is atrocious!" Brooke exclaimed. She may be theatrical but they all nodded in agreement at that.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡS9fnizbgQ9
"It was kinda dark outside but I thought I saw your shadowy figures at a close distance. So, he didn't, huh. I would have thought Zach would go in for that." Raven said slowly.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡaPV0MoEvAQ
Serena made a thoughtful sound. "Maybe but he just doesn't strike me as the sort to do that. Do you think he would kiss on first date?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡB8FkrsH4N5
December turned to her. "Did Weston gave you one on your first date?"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Gfn3yWfOM
Serena's flushed and shy expression was enough answer for her.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡoZBj0oIETi
"Maybe he's shy?" Raven said.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡuvr9PTCxXq
"Or maybe he's a shy gentleman." December added. "It doesn't matter. I think we're still in the first phase. He did kissed me on the cheek, though and I think that's more than enough, really."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡD56Staqppf
Her tone took on a shy one, and on cue, her cheeks heated. She could still feel the ghost of his warm lips on her cheek and the tingle she felt made her curl her toes. If she doesn't bring down her blushing tendencies, December might just have a fever soon.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡcNeO7fcPT5
Brooke rolled her eyes but smiled at her. "You're too cute, sometimes."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7oBzyqsaYq
Raven and Serena giggled and said in unison, "Which is what he had said too."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡABwHtZRToh
"Ah!" December let out a small scream and got up. "Okay, I'm gonna go and shower. All these talk is making me remember of how sticky I feel." She was still smiling widely as she looked at her friends' crestfallen and sulky faces. But then, Brooke's face brightened up.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8B4npcCB1v
"You complain about that now, but one day you won't mind being sticky if it's from him."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡH9UiIsJbDH
They gasped and Raven cringed. "Brooke, that's gross!"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡCej8VM7NGw
Brooke snickered behind her hand. "Serena knows what I'm talking about."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4O79cwlO8n
A gasp and a slap on the arm later, Serena said in astonished embarrassment, "Don't you bring me into this!"copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡkQwe9eHTqk
Eyes wide and thoroughly embarrassed, she yelled in a hushed voice, "You're all out of control!" before reaching for her toiletries. Face flushed, December shook her head at her weird friends who laughed harder at her expression and hastened her steps towards the bathroom.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡA2zTavGiim
It turns out that following the address Katya had given him wasn't a problem at all, as he had feared. Although it had been a few months since he'd come to San Francisco, he was getting better at going around places.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnbVxnsTbB
But the residence she'd directed him had been at least an hour away from where he was at the party and reaching it was no easy task. He had never taken the time to appreciate what he had for a transport – the public transportation and his beloved motorbike; especially the motorbike – until he had to find some means of it.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡgvrMKB1rur
Why was it so hard to get a cab around here anyway?copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡM5umZFRFX9
Pierre sighed inwardly. He really missed the motorcycle, and vowed to find a way to get it back from his father.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1LxdH4AaYL
As he stood in front of a row of four-story glass apartment, Pierre let himself be a little awe at the quiet yet mysterious beauty of the place. He wouldn't be surprise if someone owned the entire building and live in it; it looked like it belonged to a sole person – the entire place screamed such.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡLehd11O3ti
Then he wondered who exactly lived in a place as recluse yet quite grand as this. Katya? But how did she even manage to find this place?copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgoZDnEu2B
The longer he stood on the pavement facing the apartment, the more hesitant he was. What was he doing in this place? What does he even want?copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡE4nbh4gRfe
He thought back to the text he received and frowned. He wanted to tear his hair out in frustration.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡD0tVevX3yr
Why now?copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡm3HK2l7HPa
His mum. The woman who birthed and cared for him, yet she was also a stranger. Pierre was warring with his thoughts and feelings; of the past and the present. He wondered whether his future would change if he meet with whoever that was waiting for him inside.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡitfGFxKVpZ
As he took a step, a feminine voice stopped him.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡa20DXf8ViG
"I didn't think you'd come."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡmEK3pMowte
He turned around and saw Katya, a soft and relieved expression on her face. He found himself frowning and a scowl plastered on his face.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡHMHWsntdiS
"I hadn't wanted to."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡctVd6TsfOL
"Yet curiosity got the best of you, huh?" She chuckled softly.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡWaqGePtDmW
"Let's just get to the point." Pierre snapped. Every second ticking by with the person from his past made his nerves jittery and he just wanted to get this over with.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡR3Jz0bWuof
Katya's soft expression gave way to a humourless smile. "Always the impatient one."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡnBIiPPci51
His face gave no indication of what he thought of that and Katya became exasperated before she schooled hers into indifference.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ32ctJqic4E
"Very well. Follow me."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9WISwI4tct
He walked up the steps to the building and as he took in the surroundings; a decent yet pretty landscape, an extravagant patio of dark furniture with wooden floorboards, glass balustrades and lights embedded on the floorboards and ceiling. He thought it was somewhat a nice place to live in. He imagined it's something a bachelor would choose.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡIA5rTUh5cm
Hell, he imagined himself living here.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fpjJ8J1kO
And that thought made him scowl – he wasn't here to appraise living standards, he just needed to know something, and possibly get out of there as soon as possible.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡGuKong7rJk
The self-satisfied smile Katya gave him didn't escape his attention. It seemed as though she knew what he was thinking and he opted a look of nonchalance.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡVsU0TNUaT7
She pressed some buttons on a device, then swiped it with a card and stepped inside. As he followed suit, he didn't notice the equally dark refurbished place with a quiet masculine aura to it, its look a minimalistic approach with a touch of colour here and there that he would undoubtedly appreciate, as they fit some of his preferences if he were to own one someday.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡx0nWj6438p
But this wasn't a showcase building and he wasn't there to appraise anything.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡSPUCehTlJD
Which might as well be because the first thing he saw when he walked into the brightly lit space was the other two people; one whom he wanted to see less of, and another he had never thought would see again.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡGE6AFZoAai
A deep, slightly accented male voice spoke, his voice while pleasant, rang loud and clear in the quiet presence of other occupants.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡHIj4ECbJGk
"Hello, Pierre."copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8z93cnk5J4
Pierre knew then that there was no going back now, but strangely he didn't feel uncomfortable facing his past.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡJpJP0oPpY0
No, he couldn't feel anything at all.copyright protection14ＰＥＮＡＮＡHFI0KmDW5k
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